Second Amendment — Right to Keep and Bear Arms

What it means

Supreme Court cases (Heller, McDonald, Bruen) recognize an individual right to possess firearms for lawful purposes like self‑defense. Regulations may still apply, especially for prohibited persons and in sensitive places, evaluated against historical tradition.

Why you care

Affects background checks, carry permits, waiting periods, magazine limits, and where firearms can be carried. Impacts personal self‑defense choices and public‑safety policies in your state.

What people think

• Conservative: The Second Amendment protects individual rights to own firearms.
• Moderate: Balance between self-defense rights and regulations to reduce violence.
• Progressive: Gun laws should prioritize public safety over unrestricted ownership.

Connected topics

• Gun Rights